Finding Your Perfect Ottoman: A Complete Guide

An ottoman or pouf is more than just a footrest—it's a versatile piece that can transform your living space with both function and style. Whether you're looking to add extra seating, create a focal point, or simply elevate your interior design, choosing the right ottoman requires thoughtful consideration. Here's everything you need to know to find the perfect piece for your home.

1. Determine Your Primary Purpose

Before falling in love with a design, ask yourself: How will you use this ottoman?

As a Footrest: If relaxation is your priority, look for a comfortable height that aligns with your sofa or favorite chair. A plush, well-cushioned ottoman in premium leather will provide the support you need while adding a touch of luxury.

As Extra Seating: Hosting guests? Ottomans are perfect for flexible seating arrangements. Choose a sturdy, well-constructed piece—like those crafted with full-grain vegetable-tanned leather and hand-stitched details—that can support weight comfortably without losing shape.

As a Coffee Table: Many people use ottomans as stylish coffee table alternatives. If you plan to place drinks or decorative items on top, consider a firmer surface and pair it with a decorative tray for stability.

As a Statement Piece: Sometimes an ottoman is purely decorative—a pop of color, texture, or pattern that ties your room together. Moroccan leather ottomans with intricate Zellige mosaic patterns or arch designs excel in this role.

2. Consider the Size and Shape

Size matters when it comes to ottomans. The right dimensions ensure your piece fits harmoniously within your space.

Round Ottomans: Perfect for smaller spaces or rooms with lots of traffic flow. Their curved edges prevent bumped shins and create a softer, more organic feel. Round poufs work beautifully in cozy reading nooks or as accent pieces in bedrooms.

Square Ottomans: Versatile and classic, square ottomans fit well in front of sofas and can easily double as coffee tables. They offer maximum surface area and work in both traditional and contemporary settings.

Rectangular Ottomans: Ideal for longer sofas or sectionals, rectangular ottomans provide ample footrest space for multiple people. They're also excellent for creating visual balance in larger rooms.

Sizing Tips:

• Leave 12-18 inches between your ottoman and sofa for comfortable legroom
• For coffee table use, choose an ottoman that's about two-thirds the length of your sofa
• In small spaces, opt for smaller poufs that can be easily moved or tucked away
• Ensure the height is proportional to your seating—typically 1-2 inches lower than your sofa seat

3. Choose the Right Material

The material of your ottoman affects both its aesthetic appeal and longevity.

Leather: Timeless, durable, and luxurious, leather ottomans age beautifully, developing a rich patina over time. Full-grain vegetable-tanned leather is especially prized for its natural character and sustainability. Leather is easy to clean, resistant to wear, and adds warmth to any space—making it ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets.

Fabric: Offers endless color and pattern options, from bold prints to subtle textures. While fabric can be more affordable, it may require more maintenance and can show wear more quickly than leather.

Velvet: Adds instant glamour and softness. Perfect for formal living rooms or bedrooms, though it requires gentle care to maintain its luster.

Woven or Natural Fibers: Rattan, jute, or woven textiles bring a bohemian, organic feel. These work beautifully in coastal or eclectic interiors.

4. Match Your Interior Style

Your ottoman should complement your existing décor while adding its own personality.

Modern Minimalist: Look for clean lines, neutral tones, and simple silhouettes. A sleek leather ottoman in natural tan or white provides understated elegance.

Bohemian/Eclectic: Embrace pattern, texture, and color! Moroccan leather poufs with intricate Zellige tile designs or vibrant hues like soft pink or turquoise create perfect boho focal points.

Traditional/Classic: Rich leather in deep browns or classic shapes with subtle detailing work beautifully. Hand-stitched craftsmanship adds an heirloom quality.

Coastal/Relaxed: Light, airy colors like white, cream, or oiled tan evoke a beachy, laid-back vibe. Natural leather tones pair perfectly with linen and light woods.

Industrial/Urban: Distressed leather with visible texture and character fits right into loft-style spaces with exposed brick and metal accents.

5. Think About Color and Pattern

Color can make or break your design scheme.

Neutral Tones: Tan, beige, white, and brown are timeless choices that work with virtually any palette. They're safe, sophisticated, and allow other elements in your room to shine.

Bold Colors: A vibrant ottoman in soft pink, deep blue, or rich terracotta can serve as your room's statement piece. Use it to introduce a pop of color or tie together accent pillows and artwork.

Patterns: Geometric Zellige mosaic patterns or traditional Moroccan arch designs add visual interest and cultural authenticity. Patterns work especially well in rooms with mostly solid-colored furniture.

Pro Tip: If your room already has lots of patterns, choose a solid-colored ottoman. If your space feels too plain, a patterned piece adds instant personality.

6. Assess Quality and Craftsmanship

An ottoman is an investment piece that should last for years. Look for these quality indicators:

• Hand-stitched construction: Superior to machine stitching, hand-stitched seams are stronger and more durable
• Full-grain leather: The highest quality leather that retains the hide's natural grain and develops beautiful patina
• Vegetable-tanned leather: An eco-friendly tanning process that produces rich, natural colors and improves with age
• Sturdy filling: High-density foam or quality stuffing maintains shape and provides lasting comfort
• Artisan craftsmanship: Handcrafted pieces from skilled artisans in places like Marrakech carry authentic cultural heritage and superior attention to detail

7. Consider Practical Factors

Maintenance: Leather is remarkably low-maintenance—simply wipe with a damp cloth and condition occasionally. Fabric may require professional cleaning or spot treatment.

Durability: If you have kids or pets, choose materials that can withstand daily use. Quality leather actually becomes more beautiful with age and minor scuffs add character.

Portability: Lighter poufs are easy to move around for flexible seating or cleaning. Heavier ottomans stay put but may be harder to rearrange.

Storage: Some ottomans offer hidden storage—great for small spaces. However, traditional Moroccan poufs prioritize craftsmanship and aesthetic over storage functionality.

8. Budget Wisely

While it's tempting to choose the cheapest option, remember that quality ottomans are investment pieces. A well-crafted leather ottoman will last decades and actually improve with age, whereas a cheaper alternative may need replacing within a few years.

Consider the cost-per-use: a $300 handcrafted ottoman that lasts 20+ years is far more economical than a $100 piece that deteriorates in 3 years.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Instincts

While all these guidelines are helpful, the perfect ottoman is ultimately the one that makes you smile every time you see it. It should feel right in your space, serve your needs, and reflect your personal style.

Whether you choose a classic round pouf in natural tan, a bold square ottoman with Zellige mosaic patterns, or a sleek rectangular piece in soft pink, the right ottoman will become a beloved part of your home—a functional work of art that tells a story of craftsmanship, culture, and timeless design.

Ready to find your perfect ottoman? Explore our collection of handcrafted Moroccan leather ottomans, each one made by skilled artisans in Marrakech using traditional techniques and premium materials. From classic arch designs to intricate Zellige tile patterns, discover a piece that transforms your space with authentic luxury.